What is the best type of grass to plant in Toronto?

July 23rd 2019

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada, and if you include some of the major nearby areas (like Mississauga, Markham, Hamilton, Oshawa, Peterborough, Guelph and Kitchener, to name a few) the total population is in excess of three million people, according to Wikipedia.

The Toronto area has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years and given its wonderful location, likely since the end of the last ice age. The city’s location, on a lake with favourable weather patterns, allows lawns, grass, trees, and all landscaping to thrive.

Grass, specifically, flourishes in Toronto, but only if the correct variety is used. There are four primary types of grass that do well in Canada, including Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Fescue, and Canada Bluegrass.

Kentucky Bluegrass

Kentucky Bluegrass is often considered the ideal lawn grass, says American seed company, Nature’s Seed. When properly grown and cared for in the Toronto area, the grass produces a dense, lush, durable lawn. This grass requires a relatively high level of maintenance (including organic fertilization, and landscaping to ensure proper light levels) to looks its best. It is a cool season grass, with excellent winter hardiness (even in snow plow season!). It can be susceptible to drought, and it needs full sunlight (shade can stress this grass).

Ryegrass

Ryegrass is widely used, but how it is used varies throughout Canada. This grass germinates quickly and establishes itself well in the Toronto area. The grass is lush, with fine blades that keep color throughout the winter. It is a cool season grass, fast germination, good cold tolerance that can handle shade. It definitely helps provide that fresh cut grass smell! Because of its germination, frequent grass cuts are needed to properly maintain.

Fescue

Fescue is a very adaptable grass variety that does well in cold, and can withstand heat and drought, according to Seedland.com. This grass is highly durable and also can withstand some stress. It is best in cool season areas, does well in the Toronto area, as well as most of Canada. It also is heat/drought and shade tolerant, and is one of the best grasses at resisting disease. Lawn mowing pros love this grass because it can be cut without fear of damage, and looks great!

Canada Bluegrass

Canada Bluegrass is a great choice as it is shade tolerant and can withstand moderate drought. It is useful in a mix with Kentucky Bluegrass or Ryegrass for the different texture in the lawn. It does well in the Toronto area and landscapers appreciate its resistance to frequent lawn cuts.

For any of these types of grass, it is important to maintain the grass and yard throughout the growing season. This should be done as frequently as every few days in the early growing season, and as infrequently as weekly during the warm summer months. Grass Cuts, on a consistent basis, are critical for lawn health.

Some of the types of grass described above are not tolerant of shade. In those cases it is critical to complete tree work to keep your yard looking its best, including pruning, proper chemical balance, and ensuring proper limb shape and balance.

If you don’t have the time, equipment or knowledge to take care of these types of grass Landscaping Services are a great way to keep your property looking great throughout the year.